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In shortstop-light Draft, Mariners get Reinheimer

In shortstop-light Draft, Mariners get Reinheimer

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By Jacob Thorpe
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MLB.com |

With its fifth-round pick, Seattle chose shortstop Jack Reinheimer out of East Carolina University. In 2010, Reinheimer was Atlanta's 31st-round pick.

The junior stands to benefit from the dearth of impact college shortstops in this year's Draft. He is well-regarded as a defender and scouts believe he has a chance to remain a shortstop as a professional.

"He can play short, he can run, he can hit, he's a nice player," Mariners scouting director Tom McNamara said. "We spent a lot of time watching him in the summer, and again, we were happy he was there when we picked."

The 5-foot-10 shortstop has an average arm and makes all the routine plays. He has good instincts in the field, which helps his tools play up. Offensively, Reinheimer isn't as advanced. He has a good approach, but produces minimal power.

He may be destined for a utility role, but it won't be for lack of effort, as he has earned high praise for his makeup and work ethic.

Jacob Thorpe is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.